In a groundbreaking revelation that has left the medical community confounded and slightly giddy, a prominent physician has unveiled a surprising immunity booster that can stave off even the deadliest of viruses: VHS tapes of the classic 90s sitcom “Friends.”

Dr. Alphonse Hubert, the head of the Imaginary Center for Disease Prevention (ICDP), made the announcement at a recent symposium on Immunity Boosting Techniques held in Flibbertigibbet, Wisconsin. The esteemed doctor, hailed for his past work on the common cold and his pioneering studies linking hiccups to climate change, declared with utmost certainty that prolonged exposure to taped episodes of “Friends” activates a previously unknown defense mechanism within the human immune system.

“The science is inconceivably clear,” said Dr. Hubert. “Regularly watching episodes of ‘Friends’ on VHS, particularly seasons 3 through 7, has a miraculous effect on the human immune system. VHS, in particular, seems to be key to the process, as streaming or DVDs have failed to produce the same results.”

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Dr. Hubert further explained their findings, citing the complex interplay between the warm, fuzzy feelings elicited by the camaraderie of Ross, Rachel, Monica, Chandler, Joey, and Phoebe, and the biochemical reactions it triggers. According to him, the laugh track alone stimulates the production of the so-called ‘Hilarity Hormone’, scientifically known as ‘Guffawitosis’. This hormone, Dr. Hubert claims, acts like a suit of armor for white blood cells, increasing their durability and effectiveness against any invading pathogens.

The science is inconceivably clear," said Dr. Hubert.

The astounding discovery has sent ripples through the scientific community, most of whom are rushing to dust off their old VCRs and locate their long-forgotten VHS collections. Meanwhile, there has been an unprecedented surge in the sales of “Friends” VHS box sets, with prices skyrocketing in both physical stores and online trading platforms like eBay.

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However, the news has not been universally embraced. Critics have raised questions about the study’s methodology, the relatively small sample size of the study (consisting mainly of Dr. Hubert’s immediate family and his pet goldfish, Larry), and the strange absence of any control group.

As the medical world attempts to grapple with this unexpected twist, one thing is clear: VHS tapes might not be as obsolete as we thought. Whether our future involves bartering episodes of “Friends” in exchange for health and longevity, only time — and further research — will tell. Stay tuned as we delve deeper into Dr. Hubert’s study in the next segment.

In the wake of Dr. Hubert’s announcement, the ICDP has been inundated with thousands of queries from ‘Friends’ aficionados and hypochondriacs alike, eager to learn more about this miraculous discovery. To cope with the demand, the center has had to hire additional staff, most of whom are busy transcribing every single line from “Friends” into a universal database, albeit in between fits of laughter and moments of nostalgia.

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“The project is time-consuming but ultimately rewarding,” said newly hired transcriptionist, Ms. Janice Littauer, echoing Chandler Bing’s iconic phrase with a wide grin, “Could we BE any healthier?”

Yet, despite the enthusiasm of the general public and certain factions of the scientific community, skepticism remains. Dr. Reginald Pheebs, a renowned immunologist and self-proclaimed skeptic, has openly ridiculed Dr. Hubert’s findings. “Next, he’ll be claiming that the theme song’s catchy tune ‘I’ll be there for you’ has curative properties. It’s preposterous!” scoffed Dr. Pheebs.

Dr. Hubert has responded to the criticism with characteristic calmness. “I’ve always embraced skepticism,” he said. “Indeed, it is the very bedrock of scientific inquiry. But the ‘Guffawitosis’ doesn’t lie.”

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In the meantime, the World Health Organization is reportedly considering adding ‘Friends’ box sets to their Global Strategic Stockpiles, amidst concerns of a severe shortage. There are even rumors that the United Nations might soon recognize binge-watching ‘Friends’ as a basic human right, citing the Universal Declaration of Human Rights’ provision for the right to enjoy the benefits of scientific progress and its applications.

Amidst the controversy, reruns of ‘Friends’ have returned to primetime television, the first time since its finale in 2004. The steep rise in TV ratings has been attributed to a simultaneous decline in flu cases, leading some to speculate that Dr. Hubert might be onto something.

In response to the recent developments, the creators of ‘Friends’ have released a joint statement, expressing their amazement and delight. “We knew we were making something special, but we never imagined it would have such far-reaching implications for public health. Could we BE more chuffed?”

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As the debate continues, one thing is certain: millions of people around the world are now blowing dust off their VHS players, hoping that the wisdom of Ross, Rachel, Chandler, Monica, Phoebe, and Joey might prove to be the key to their health. Whether or not the ‘hilarity hormone’ will live up to its hype remains to be seen. Until then, ‘Friends’ fans worldwide can revel in their favorite episodes, confident in the knowledge that laughter is, after all, the best medicine. Whether it’s the ONLY medicine, we leave for Dr. Hubert to determine in his ongoing research.